Cinnamon Donut Bread: A Sweet, Cozy Treat in Every Bite

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Cinnamon Donut Bread: A Sweet, Cozy Treat in Every Bite

Craving the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon donuts, but without the frying hassle? This Cinnamon Donut Bread captures the essence of your favorite donut in a soft, tender loaf. With a buttery crumb and a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack. Here’s why this recipe will become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Cinnamon Bliss: Packed with the cozy warmth of cinnamon in every bite.
  • Donut-Inspired Flavor: Captures the essence of a cinnamon donut without the frying hassle.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Great for gifting, potlucks, or enjoying with family and friends.
  • Customizable: Add nuts, glaze, or extra spices to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake

  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar

  • While the bread is still warm, brush the entire surface generously with melted butter.
  • In a shallow dish, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Roll the buttered bread in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres evenly.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Buttermilk Magic: Adds moisture and tenderness to the bread, keeping it soft and flavorful.
  • Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: Mimics the crispy, sugary exterior of a donut while enhancing the flavor.
  • Simple Techniques: No fancy equipment or frying required—just mix, bake, and coat!

Variations to Try

  • Glazed Version: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar + milk) over the cooled bread for extra sweetness.
  • Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for deeper flavor.
  • Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Swirl chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolate-cinnamon combo.
  • Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into smaller loaf pans for individual-sized treats.

Tips for Success

  • Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
  • Don’t Skip the Coating: Brushing the bread with butter before rolling in cinnamon sugar ensures the coating sticks well.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

  • Romantic Touch: Slice the bread and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for elegance.
  • Brunch Staple: Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy breakfast spread.
  • Party Platter: Arrange slices on a platter with other sweet treats like cookies, muffins, or fruit tarts for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Donut Bread is a delightful hybrid that brings together the best of cinnamon donuts and homemade bread. With its tender crumb, spiced aroma, and sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet comforting. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, a holiday gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, this bread is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.

Enjoy, and let the cinnamon bliss begin!

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